- Joined
- Dec 31, 2013
- Messages
- 327
If you've seen Abom79's channel on Youtube, you've probably seen him use a Noga indicator holder many times. I've been using a cheaper no-name version for awhile now and really like that style compared to a traditional holder, so when Enco had their last sale I decided to upgrade to a Noga. Adam also uses an adapter so the indicator tip is held straight-out from the holder and I've found this quite handy, so I decided to make a new brass one for the Noga.
First pic is using the extended center-drill holder which I described earlier in this thread. One thing I've changed since the initial build was stepping-up to a larger set screw, which is now 10-24. It's holding the #3 center-drill fine.
Next is some knurling and then tapping the nut, which was then parted from the brass round stock. After that, you can see the turning of the adapter. The magnetic-backed indicator from Shars is really handy for measuring this type of work.
Next is threading the end of the adapter with a round die. My next project will be a tailstock tap and die holder, which would have been handy a couple of times just on this job alone.
Collets are really handy for this type of small project. You don't have the distraction of chuck jaws spinning so close to your work and a collet can clamp onto knurling (or threads) without damage when you need to face and chamfer.
Here are two indicator adapters, the top one is the old steel one I made from a bolt.
Next you can see the holder with the indicator held the usual way. With the base switch facing you, the tip isn't facing the work, so you end-up twisting the holder around. Next pic is using the adapter. It's just less awkward for measuring in this direction.
And the last pic shows a indicator and holder used in a typical situation.
Noga vs the Cheapy Holder
Even though both holders are exactly the same height when extended, the Noga holder's bottom arm is about an inch longer which makes the setup shown in the above picture work instead of requiring sticking the holder on the bed ways. It's much easier to stick the holder on the metal table with my small lathe.
The base fine adjust on the Noga is sweet. No more banging the indicator around trying to get zero.
And, of course, the build quality is better on the more expensive Noga holder. I imagine it will last me for the quite awhile.
First pic is using the extended center-drill holder which I described earlier in this thread. One thing I've changed since the initial build was stepping-up to a larger set screw, which is now 10-24. It's holding the #3 center-drill fine.
Next is some knurling and then tapping the nut, which was then parted from the brass round stock. After that, you can see the turning of the adapter. The magnetic-backed indicator from Shars is really handy for measuring this type of work.
Next is threading the end of the adapter with a round die. My next project will be a tailstock tap and die holder, which would have been handy a couple of times just on this job alone.
Collets are really handy for this type of small project. You don't have the distraction of chuck jaws spinning so close to your work and a collet can clamp onto knurling (or threads) without damage when you need to face and chamfer.
Here are two indicator adapters, the top one is the old steel one I made from a bolt.
Next you can see the holder with the indicator held the usual way. With the base switch facing you, the tip isn't facing the work, so you end-up twisting the holder around. Next pic is using the adapter. It's just less awkward for measuring in this direction.
And the last pic shows a indicator and holder used in a typical situation.
Noga vs the Cheapy Holder
Even though both holders are exactly the same height when extended, the Noga holder's bottom arm is about an inch longer which makes the setup shown in the above picture work instead of requiring sticking the holder on the bed ways. It's much easier to stick the holder on the metal table with my small lathe.
The base fine adjust on the Noga is sweet. No more banging the indicator around trying to get zero.
And, of course, the build quality is better on the more expensive Noga holder. I imagine it will last me for the quite awhile.
